New windows can make your home quieter and less drafty—in short, more comfortable. And many new double-hung windows are easier to clean and maintain than their older counterparts fitted with combination screens and storms. On top of all this, new windows also can enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Installing replacement windows is a common way for homeowners to achieve those benefits. Typical replacement windows (sometimes called “pocket” windows) fit inside the existing window frame, minimizing installation costs. But many replacement window lines are also available as new-construction windows that require the removal of the entire old window, including the frame, sill, and trim. As a result, these usually cost more to install than the pocket type.